Rashford, 26, has earned 60 caps for his country, scoring 17 goals, including three at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

But his form for United has been underwhelming this season with only seven Premier League goals.

"These are difficult calls, you are talking about players who are very good players who have been an important part of what we have done," the Three Lions boss told reporters.

"With Marcus, I feel players in the same area of the pitch have had better seasons, it's as simple as that."

Jordan Henderson is another experienced head who has not been picked. Southgate suggested the Ajax midfielder came close to being selected.

"Hendo has given himself every chance, the determining factor is the injury he picked up in the last camp, he missed five weeks and he just hasn't been able to get to the intensity since the games since then.

"He is a fantastic professional and it was a difficult call to make."

More follows.

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